Fair provides glimpses into diverse cultures

Luba Lipkin stroked the large ears of the stuffed brown animal named "Cheburashka" as she told its story.

"Cheburashka is a kind little animal who doesn't know what kind of animal he is," Lipkin said. "It is a popular toy for Russian children."

Originally from Tula, a town south of Moscow, Lipkin came to the United States 14 years ago. On Saturday, she relived childhood memories as she visited the World's Fair at Stevenson High School where her daughter is a student.

"They did a good job with the booth," she said. "This is a wonderful event because you can see so many people from so many countries."

A new addition to the annual event, the Russian booth featured children's toys and books, along with a map. Clubs, classes and groups of interested students transformed the school's west wing into vignettes highlighting foreign countries and cultures, including the diverse heritage of the Lincolnshire school's students, parents, faculty members and staff.

"This is the one time of year that we all come together and build bridges," said senior Neil Jani. "We are thankful that Stevenson gives us this opportunity."

Jani was staffing an exhibit on cricket at the India booth. He was one of about 35 students, all outfitted in brightly colored traditional clothing.

In all, about 350 students staffed 35 booths in the diversity council-sponsored event, said teacher Janet Jesse, who advises the group with fellow teacher Lisa Kaplan.

"The only requirement is that each booth has a flag and a map. We want to encourage participation. New this year is the Greek Club booth and the Russian booth. The Interact Club is sponsoring children's games this year, which also is new," Jesse said.

There was a great deal of food to sample as well. You could try Chinese noodles and follow it with homemade apple cake from the German booth or polvorones from the Spanish Club booth.

The Japanese booth blended the old and new. Students dressed in kimonos, while the Anime Club exhibited a collection of comic books, videos and games.

The World's Fair and Carnivale continues from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. today, with a fashion show and entertainment showcase at 2 p.m. Stevenson is on Route 22 west of Milwaukee Avenue in Lincolnshire.